1) Rashard Mendenhall — Mendenhall can control the tempo and flow of the game with his speed and power while taking much-needed pressure off Dennis Dixon.

2) Defense — Fresh off a poor season, if the Steelers can limit the Falcons points, then their offense won't have to put up gaudy numbers, which could be difficult to do with Dixon at the helm.

3) Dennis Dixon's legs — If protection breaks down, Dixon could escape downfield like no other QB on the roster and produce big plays and big headaches for Atlanta, and could turn the tide of the game.

3 REASONS WHY THE STEELERS WILL LOSE

1) Dennis Dixon's inexperience — Dixon has just one career start heading into today's game. Atlanta has had an entire week to prepare which could prove to be Dixon's downfall.

2) Kickoff coverage — The Steelers allowed four kickoff returns for touchdowns last season. The Steelers can't afford to overcome a special teams blunder with Dixon at quarterback.

3) Bruce Arians — If Arians decides to put too much, or even too little, responsibilities on Dixon's plate, it could prove to be a disaster. Arians needs to find just the right blend to be successful offensively.